Thermal analysis is a branch of materials science where the properties of materials are studied as they change with temperature. Several methods are commonly used – these are distinguished from one another by the property which is measured: thermogravimetry (TG), differential thermal analysis (DTA), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), and thermomechanical analysis (TMA) are the principal thermal analysis methods.

It is essential for investigating physical properties of materials throughout their entire life cycle (R&D, production & quality control and failure analysis).